What Is a Plunger —And Why Should You Care?
A plunger acts like the emergency in your car. It prevents an elevator from moving unexpectedly while people are getting in or out.
It’s a small component with big safety implications, and it's now a required feature for every elevator in the city.
Here’s where it gets real…
Read MoreIf you’re on a coop or condo board, you already know: getting enough shareholders or unit owners to show up at the annual meeting can feel like pulling teeth. And when it comes to finding people willing to run for the board? That’s often even harder.
Read MoreAs a co-op or condo board member, you’re likely feeling the pressure of Local Law 97 (LL97)—one of NYC’s most ambitious climate laws. Designed to reduce carbon emissions from large buildings, LL97 comes with strict emissions limits and potential fines for non-compliance.
But what happens when your building wants to comply but simply doesn’t have enough electrical capacity to fully electrify?
Read MoreDid you know that two of the most common complaints in condos and coops are smells and noise? Whether it’s cooking odors, cigarette smoke, or even marijuana smoke, unwanted smells can quickly turn into a major issue in apartment living. If your neighbor’s smoking habits are making their way into your apartment, you’re not alone.
While co-op living is all about community, it’s also about respecting each other’s space. You have the right to enjoy your home without dealing with persistent secondhand smoke, just as your neighbor has the right to their lifestyle. So how do you handle this without turning it into a full-blown conflict? Here’s how you can address the problem effectively while keeping the peace.
Read MoreNYC’s Local Law 111 expands lead paint inspection requirements for multifamily buildings, including co-ops and condos. If your building was built before 1960—or between 1960 and 1978 with known lead-based paint—you must complete XRF testing in all common areas by August 9, 2025. Learn what your board needs to do to stay compliant and avoid fines.
Read MoreMaking a change in property management is one of the most significant decisions a co-op or condo board can face. In a recent episode of Habitat Magazine’s Problem Solved! podcast, Tina Larsson, co-founder and CEO of The Folson Group, shared a success story about a Westchester co-op board that found itself in a challenging situation with its existing property manager.
Read MoreThe annual meeting is a cornerstone event for any coop or condo building. It’s not just about checking off a governance requirement; it’s an opportunity to foster transparency, engage shareholders or unit owners, and build trust in the board’s leadership. Importantly, this is where the board members are elected, making it a critical event for shaping the building’s governance. A well-planned annual meeting can set the tone for the entire year, while a chaotic one can erode confidence and create unnecessary friction. Here’s how to ensure your building’s annual meeting runs smoothly and achieves its goals.
Read MoreIn Manhattan co-ops, resolving disputes between neighbors can be a delicate process. A recent New York Times article tackled this issue, highlighting a situation where one shareholder’s HVAC installation was causing problems for another. I was honored to contribute my perspective on how to navigate these challenges effectively and amicably.
Read MoreWhat's your biggest fear of living in an apartment building?
Sure, leaks from burst pipes are costly and inconvenient, but fires? Fires are terrifying. They can escalate quickly, cause significant damage, and put lives at serious risk. The good news? Fires are often preventable if you take proactive measures. Here’s what every co-op and condo resident and board member should know to protect their building from a disaster.
Read MoreImagine stepping into your building’s beautifully decorated lobby, warmly greeted by neighbors who were once just faces in the elevator. In a condo or co-op, a holiday party is more than just a seasonal celebration—it’s a chance to build a genuine sense of community. Hosting a holiday gathering can help you get to know your neighbors, strengthen connections, and improve the overall experience of living in your building. Here are the many sides to a building-wide holiday party and what it can do to create a friendlier, more connected community for everyone.
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